[23.07.2OO3] EU Satisfied With Kyrgyz Progress On Democratization After HRW Calls On EU To Demand Better Performance On Human Rights

The European Union Commission for Cooperation Between Kyrgyzstan and the EU met on 22 July to hear a Kyrgyz report on the progress of democratization. The 1999 EU-Kyrgyz cooperation agreement placed particular emphasis on democratization, human rights, and freedom of expression. A special group set up by the EU reported to the commission on improvements in the situation of non-governmental and public organizations in Kyrgyzstan. At the end of the meeting, an EU representative told journalists that the commission is satisfied with Kyrgyzstan's human rights record, RFE/RL's Kyrgyz Service reported. The session also discussed press reports that the opening of a planned Russian air base in northern Kyrgyzstan is being held up by U.S. opposition. The EU is also interested in developing trade relations with Kyrgyzstan, particularly in the area of natural-resources processing. In a concluding statement, both sides reaffirmed their commitment to fighting international terrorism and drug trafficking.